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Emmys 2024: John Oliver hits out after speech cut him off

Mon 16 September 2024 9:39, UK

Comedian John Oliver lashed out at the Emmy Awards on September 15th as the award ceremony started to play him off stage while he was still delivering a relatively sad part of his acceptance speech. While award shows are now synonymous with playing off winners if they’re talking for too long, Oliver decided to use this convention to his advantage.

The British comic won the Emmy for outstanding scripted variety series with his show Last Week Tonight, beating entertainment giants such as Saturday Night Live. Although the celebrations were cut short as Oliver delivered his acceptance speech because he was deemed as overrunning and the show started playing music to make him leave. This coincided with Oliver paying tribute to his family’s dog, who recently passed away.

“In particular, I want to thank the silly odd dog,” he told the star-studded crowd in Los Angeles, “We have the most fantastic dog, and she was at our wedding and she got us through the pandemic. She was with us for two pregnancies…”

As he spoke, orchestral music began playing, but rather than getting phased, Oliver said, “Perfect choice of music.” He continued, “We had to say goodbye to her. I feel like Sarah McLaughlin right now. She was an amazing dog.”

The music increased in volume and continued to swell in a bid to get Oliver off the stage. The comedian responded, “Fuck you! There you go. This isn’t just for her. This is for all dogs.” He said, “All dogs, you are all very good girls. You are very good boys. You all deserve a treat. Play me off now! Thanks so much.”

Last Week Tonight is currently in its eleventh season on HBO. Since starting in 2014, the show has been a hound for awards, winning a total of 30 Emmys.

Who were the big winners at the Emmys?

The Emmys were their usual bag of comedy, speeches and tear-eye moments. There were various winners, some expected and some not so much. One of the standouts throughout the night was the series Shōgun, which managed to take home a total of 18 awards.

However, controversially, the ceremony labelled the hit series The Bear as a comedy and it romped home in the category. Notably, the programme’s lead actor and actress, Jeremy Allen White and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, both won awards in their respective comedy category.

Baby Reindeer also took home four Emmys. It’s clear the show has continued to be recognised for its artistic value despite the controversy surrounding it since. As the Netflix lawsuit continues, Richard Gadd could enjoy a night where his creation was celebrated.

A select list of the big winners from the Emmy Awards is below: